Nagaland predominantly an agrarian state with 70% of the
population dependent and engaged in agriculture for livelihood. The practices
are based on traditional methods like jhum and terrace cultivation, with rice
being the stable crop. With the advancement in technology, modern science is
increasingly shaping the agriculture in Nagaland.
Besides many scientists helping farmers to preserve their
traditional practices by adopting sustainable techniques, while also improving
yield production. Researchers are also studying indigenous medicinal plants
through scientific affirmation in Nagaland.
An example of how traditional knowledge and scientific
research are contributing towards economic opportunities is the popularisation
of Naga King Chilli by getting geographical indication (GI) tag.
Scientific approach to agriculture in Nagaland
While Alder-based farming, terrace cultivation, organic
farming practices and government initiatives like the Horticulture Technology
Mission (HTM) are being used to improve yields in Nagaland, blending
traditional practices with scientific practices, fostering the economic
condition of the state. Farmers are encouraged to practice double, inter, relay
and mixed cropping to improve yields and resource utilisation. Integrated Pest
Management (IPM) is also emphasised to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides
and sustainable pest control methods.
Breakdown of how science is shaping agriculture in Nagaland
1.The
traditional farming practices are inherently organic and the state government
in collaboration with M.R Morarka Research Foundation is implementing on organic
agriculture programme utilising science and technology to support farmers.
2.Nagaland
University’s Department of Biotechnology is conducting research on indigenous
plants and opening up ways for commercial use.
3.The
Angami and Chakhesang tribes have developed a system of wet terrace rice
cultivation (WTRC), which is a sustainable approach to rice farming in hilly
terrains. In Kikruma village under Phek district, zabo system integrates
livestock rearing, crop cultivation and forestry while also demonstrating a
holistic approach.
4.The
Department of Agriculture in Nagaland has a biofertilizer production laboratory
at Medziphema that produces various biofertilizer for both kharif and rabi
crops, which are distributed to free to farmers to promote sustainable
agriculture.
Despite its rich agricultural heritage, the state faces
setbacks and challenges. Land degradation, limited irrigation due to hilly
terrain, inadequate infrastructure that hinders market access for farmers, climatic
change leading to irregular rainfall pattern, soil erosion and loss of
fertility in many areas are some of the issues that need to be tackled.
The state vision in achieving food security and sustainable
agriculture through scientific management practices in Nagaland by 2025 is a
testament towards the significance of scientific application in agricultural
development. In Nagaland, science and technology are increasingly used in
agriculture to improve productivity, promote sustainable practices, and enhance
farmers' livelihoods, focusing on areas like organic farming, mechanization,
and research and development. The future of agriculture in Nagaland lies in
investing more on scientific technology and new innovation to intensify the
traditional practices leading to sustainable farming.
